Spatial distribution of metabolites in processing Ziziphi Spinosae Semen as revealed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging.

Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS) is the first choice for the treatment of insomnia. This research aimed to reveal the spatial distribution of identifying quality markers of ZSS and to illustrate the metabolite quality characteristics of this herbal medicine. Here, we performed a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) in situ to detect and image 33 metabolites in ZSS, including three saponins, six flavonoids, four alkaloids, eight fatty acids, and 12 amino acids. The MALDI images of the metabolites clearly showed the heterogeneous spatial distribution in different regions of ZSS tissues, such as the cotyledon, endosperm, and radicle. The distribution area of two saponins, six flavonoids, and three alkaloids increased significantly after the fried processing of ZSS. Based on the ion images, samples with different processing technologies were distinguished unambiguously by the pattern recognition method of orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA). Simultaneously, 23 major influencing components exerting higher ion intensities were identified as the potential quality markers of ZSS. Results obtained in the current research demonstrate that the processing of ZSS changes its content and distribution of the medicinal components. The analysis of MALDI-MSI provides a novel MS-based molecular imaging approach to investigate and monitor traditional medicinal plants.

Linking soil nutrients, microbial community composition, and enzyme activities to saponin content of Paris polyphylla after addition of biochar and organic fertiliser.

The application of organic fertilisers and biochar has become widespread in agroforestry ecosystems to enhance the yield and quality of crops and medicinal plants. However, their specific impact on both the yield and quality of Paris polyphylla (P. polyphylla), along with the underlying mechanisms, remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the distinct effects of organic fertiliser (at concentrations of 5% and 10%) and biochar application (at levels of 2% and 4%) on P. polyphylla saponin content. This content is intricately regulated by available soil nutrients, enzyme activities, and microbial community compositions and activities. Our results clearly demonstrated a significant increase in the saponin content, including total saponin, polyphyllin I (PPI), polyphyllin II (PPII), polyphyllin VI (PPVI), and polyphyllin VII (PPVII), in P. polyphylla following the application of both biochar and organic fertiliser. Moreover, in comparison to the control group, the addition of biochar and organic fertiliser led to a considerable rise in the activity of glycosyltransferase enzyme (GTS) and cycloartenol synthase (CAS) in P. polyphylla. Additionally, it increased soil available potassium (AK) and soil organic matter (SOM) concentration, along with the activity of urease, acid phosphatase, and catalase, although biochar amendment resulted in a decrease in nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) concentration. Crucially, our findings revealed a positive correlation between total saponin content and the activity of CAS in P. polyphylla, soil AK, SOM concentration, and the activities of urease, acid phosphatase, and catalase. Conversely, there was a negative correlation with NO3--N content. Furthermore, the application of organic fertiliser and biochar significantly influenced microbial community structures and specific microbial taxa. Notably, total saponin content exhibited a positive relationship with the relative abundances of Dehalococcoidia, Saccharomycetes, and Agaricomycetes taxa while showing a negative correlation with the abundance of Verrucomicrobiae. In conclusion, the observed increase in saponin content can be attributed to the modulation of specific microbial taxa in soils, as well as alterations in soil nutrients and enzyme activities resulting from the application of biochar and organic fertiliser. This study identifies a potential mechanism for enhancing saponin content in the artificial cultivation of P. polyphylla.

[Simultaneous determination of maltol and seventeen saponins in red and black ginseng by UPLC-PDA wavelength switching method].

This study developed a UPLC-PDA wavelength switching method to simultaneously determine the content of maltol and seventeen saponins in red and black ginseng and compared the quality differences of two different processed products of red and black ginseng. A Waters HSS T3 column(2. 1 mm×100 mm, 1. 8 µm) at 30 ℃ was adopted, with the mobile phase of acetonitrile(A) and water containing 0. 1% phosphoric acid(B) under gradient elution, the flow rate of 0. 3 m L·min~(-1), and the injection volume of 2 µL.The wavelength switching was set at 273 nm within 0-11 min and 203 nm within 11-60 min. The content results of multiple batches of red and black ginseng samples were analyzed by the hierarchical cluster analysis(HCA) and principal component analysis(PCA) to evaluate the quality difference. The results showed that the 18 constituents exhibited good linear relationships within certain concentration ranges, with the correlation coefficients(r) greater than 0. 999 1. The relative standard deviations(RSDs) of precision,repeatability, and stability were all less than 5. 0%. The average recoveries ranged from 95. 93% to 104. 2%, with an RSD of 1. 8%-4. 2%. The content determination results showed that the quality of red and black ginseng samples was different, and the two types of processed products were intuitively distinguished by HCA and PCA. The method is accurate, reliable, and reproducible. It can be used to determine the content of maltol and seventeen saponins in red and black ginseng and provide basic information for the quality evaluation and comprehensive utilization of red and black ginseng.

Analysis of the Variation in Antioxidant Activity and Chemical Composition upon the Repeated Thermal Treatment of the By-Product of the Red Ginseng Manufacturing Process.

Steamed ginseng water (SGW) is a by-product of the repeated thermal processing of red ginseng, which is characterized by a high bioactive content, better skin care activity, and a large output. However, its value has been ignored, resulting in environmental pollution and resource waste. In this study, UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and multivariate statistical analysis were conducted to characterize the compositional features of the repeated thermal-treated SGW. The antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and OH) and chemical composition (total sugars, total saponins, and reducing and non-reducing sugars) were comprehensively evaluated based on the entropy weighting method. Four comparison groups (groups 1 and 3, groups 1 and 5, groups 1 and 7, and groups 1 and 9) were screened for 37 important common difference markers using OPLS-DA analysis. The entropy weight method was used to analyze the weights of the indicators; the seventh SGW sample was reported to have a significant weight. The results of this study suggest that heat treatment time and frequency can be an important indicator value for the quality control of SGW cycling operations, which have great potential in antioxidant products.

Antiviral and Cytotoxic Activities of Ilex aquifolium Silver Queen in the Context of Chemical Profiling of Two Ilex Species.

The leaves of Ilex paraguariensis (known as Yerba mate), used as a popular beverage, are a very well-recognized plant material with various biological activities, including analeptic (because of caffeine), anti-obesity (phenolics, saponins), antimicrobial, and antiviral (phenolics, saponins). Here, the chemical compositions of the leaves of two European Ilex species (× meserveae and aquifolium) with three varieties each were investigated. The terpenoid, saponin, and polyphenolic fractions were submitted for LC-MS or GC-MS analysis against a standard Mate leaf. In addition, the aroma profiles of all the species were analysed using HS-SPME-Arrow prior to GC-MS analysis. All fractions were subjected to antiviral and cytotoxic assays. We found 86 compounds in all accessions, with limonene, linalool, and p-cymene being predominant. There were minor similarities between the volatile compositions of the European and South American species. We found ursolic and oleanolic acid to be the main compounds in the terpenoid fraction. Mono-caffeoylquinic acids and di-caffeoylquinic acids were the main constituents of the polar fractions. About 180 compounds from the saponin group were tentatively identified, of which 9 and 3 were selected as distinctive markers for I. meserveae and I. aquifolium, respectively. Based on chemical screening, I. aquifolium Silver Queen was chosen as the source of terpenoid and saponin fractions and polyphenol extracts. The most substantial inhibition of cancer cell growth was observed with saponin in the case of the MCF7 (human breast cancer) cell line, while for LoVo and L929 cell lines (human colorectal cancer and reference mouse fibroblasts), it was slightly weaker. These results should be analysed further as a promising chemoprevention of colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers. Saponin and polyphenolic extracts exhibited similar activities against HSV-1 and HAdV-5, with 4-log reduction in virus titres. This study focuses our attention on a field of potential antiviral formulations derived from European holly.

Evaluation of the environmental factors influencing the quality of Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus based on HPLC and the Maxent model.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, global climate change in tandem with increased human activity has resulted in habitat degradation or the migration of rare medicinal plants, potentially impacting the quality of medicinal herbs. Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus is a valuable bulk medicinal material in Northwest China. As the demand for this medicinal herb continues to increase in both domestic and international markets, ensuring the sustainable development of high-quality Astragali Radix is important. In this study, the maximum entropy (Maxent) model was applied, thereby incorporating 136 distribution records, along with 39 environmental factors of A. membranaceus var. mongholicus, to assess the quality zonation and potential distribution of this species in China under climate change. RESULTS: The results showed that the elevation, annual mean temperature, precipitation of wettest month, solar radiation in June, and mean temperature of warmest quarter were the critical environmental factors influencing the accumulation of astragaloside IV and Astragalus polysaccharide in A. membranaceus var. mongholicus. Among the twelve main environmental variables, annual mean temperature, elevation, precipitation of the wettest month, and solar radiation in November were the four most important factors influencing the distribution of A. membranaceus var. mongholicus. In addition, ecological niche modelling revealed that highly suitable habitats were mainly located in central and western Gansu, eastern Qinghai, northern Shaanxi, southern Ningxia, central Inner Mongolia, central Shanxi, and northern Hebei. However, the future projections under climate change suggested a contraction of these suitable areas, shifting towards northeastern high-latitude and high-elevation mountains. CONCLUSIONS: The findings provide essential insights for developing adaptive strategies for A. membranaceus var. mongholicus cultivation in response to climate change and can inform future research on this species. By considering the identified environmental factors and the potential impacts of the predicted climate changes, we can visualize the regional distribution of high-quality Radix Astragali and develop conservation strategies to protect and restore its suitable habitats.

Prediction of Chinese suitable habitats of Panax notoginseng under climate change based on MaxEnt and chemometric methods.

Notoginseng saponin R1; ginsenosides Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd; the sum of the five saponins; and underground-part fresh weight (UPFW) of single plants were used as quality evaluation indices for Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen (P. notoginseng). Comprehensive evaluation of P. notoginseng samples from 30 production areas was performed using that MaxEnt model. Spatial pattern changes in suitable P. notoginseng habitats were predicted for current and future periods (2050s, 2070s, and 2090s) using SSP126 and SSP585 models. The results revealed that temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation were important environmental variables. Suitable habitats were located mainly in Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan Provinces. The distribution core of P. notoginseng is predicted to shift southeast in the future. The saponin content decreased from the southeast to the northwest of Yunnan Province, which was contrary to the UPFW trend. This study provides the necessary information for the protection and sustainable utilization of P. notoginseng resources, and a theoretical reference for its application in the quality evaluation of Chinese medicinal products.

Analyzing noncovalent interactions between notoginseng saponins and lysozyme by deposition scanning intensity fading MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry.

Analysis of noncovalent interactions between natural products and proteins is important for rapid screening of active ingredients and understanding their pharmacological activities. In this work, the intensity fading MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (IF-MALDI-MS) method with improved reproducibility was implemented to investigate the binding interactions between saponins from Panax notoginseng and lysozyme. The benchmark IF-MALDI-MS experiment was established using N,N',N″-triacetylchitotriose-lysozyme as a model system. The reproducibility of ion intensities in IF-MALDI-MS was improved by scanning the whole sample deposition with a focused laser beam. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of deposition scanning IF-MALDI-MS is 5.7%. Similar decay trends of the relative intensities of notoginseng saponins against increasing amounts of lysozyme were observed for all six notoginseng saponins. The half-maximal fading concentration (FC50) was calculated to quantitatively characterize the binding affinity of each ligand based on the decay curve. According to the FC50 values obtained, the binding affinities of the six notoginseng saponins were evaluated in the following order: notoginsenoside S > notoginsenoside Fc > ginsenoside Rb1 > ginsenoside Rd > notoginsenoside Ft1 > ginsenoside Rg1. The binding order was in accordance with molecular docking studies, which showed hydrogen bonding might play a key role in stabilizing the binding interaction. Our results demonstrated that deposition scanning IF-MALDI-MS can provide valuable information on the noncovalent interactions between ligands and proteins.

Quality Evaluation of Lonicerae Flos Produced in Southwest China Based on HPLC Analysis and Antioxidant Activity.

Lonicera macranthoides, the main source of traditional Chinese medicine Lonicerae Flos, is extensively cultivated in Southwest China. However, the quality of L. macranthoides produced in this region significantly varies due to its wide distribution and various cultivation breeds. Herein, 50 Lonicerae Flos samples derived from different breeds of L. macranthoides cultivated in Southwest China were collected for quality evaluation. Six organic acids and three saponin compounds were quantitatively analyzed using HPLC. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of a portion of samples was conducted with 2,2'-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging experiments. According to the quantitative results, all samples met the quality standards outlined in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The samples from Guizhou, whether derived from unopened or open wild-type breeds, exhibited high quality, while the wild-type samples showed relatively significant fluctuation in quality. The samples from Chongqing and Hunan demonstrated similar quality, whereas those from Sichuan exhibited relatively lower quality. These samples demonstrated significant abilities in clearing ABTS and DPPH radicals. The relationship between HPLC chromatograms and antioxidant activity, as elucidated by multivariate analysis, indicated that chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, isochlorogenic acid B, and isochlorogenic acid C are active components and can serve as Q-markers for quality evaluation.

Altitudinal Impact on Phytochemical Composition and Mycorrhizal Diversity of Taxus Contorta Griff in the Temperate Forest of Shimla District.

Taxus contorta (family Taxaceae) is a native plant of temperate region of western Himalaya. The current study investigated the effect of altitude on the phytochemical composition and mycorrhizal diversity, associated with distribution of T. contorta in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Quantitative phytochemical analysis of the leaf extracts indicated that alkaloid levels decreased with altitude, with the highest value in Himri's methanol extracts (72.79 ± 1.08 mg/g) while phenol content increased with altitude, peaking in Nankhari's methanol extracts (118.83 ± 5.90 mg/g). Saponin content was higher in methanol extracts (78.13 ± 1.66 mg/g in Nankhari, 68.06 ± 1.92 mg/g in Pabbas, and 56.32 ± 1.93 mg/g in Himri). Flavonoid levels were notably higher in chloroform extracts, particularly in Nankhari (219.97 ± 2.99 mg/g), and positively correlated with altitude. Terpenoids were higher in chloroform extracts at Himri (11.34 ± 0.10 mg/g) and decreased with altitude. Taxol content showed minimal variation between solvents and altitudes (4.53-6.98 ppm), while rutin was only detected in methanol extracts (1.31-1.46 ppm). Mycorrhizal spore counts in T. contorta's rhizosphere varied with altitude: highest at Himri (77.83 ± 2.20 spores/50 g soil), decreasing to Pabbas (68.06 ± 1.96 spores/50 g soil) and lowest at Nankhari (66.00 ± 2.77 spores/50 g soil), with 17 AMF species identified overall, showing significant altitudinal influence on spore density. The rhizosphere of T. contorta was shown to be dominated by the Glomus species. The rhizospheric soil of the plant was found to be slightly acidic. Organic carbon and available potassium content decreased contrasting with increasing available nitrogen and phosphorus with altitude. Correlation data showed strong negative links between organic carbon (-0.83), moderate positive for nitrogen (0.46) and phosphorus (0.414), and moderate negative for potassium (-0.56) with the altitude. This study provides a comprehensive insight into changes in phytochemical constituents, mycorrhizal diversity and soil composition of T. contorta along a range of altitude.

An efficient method for rapid screening of triterpenoid saponins in three Glycyrrhiza species using rapid resolution liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry combined with mass defect filtering.

Triterpenoid saponins, a major bioactive component of liquorice, possess high hydrophilicity and often co-occur with other impurities of similar polarity. Additionally, subtle structural differences of some triterpenoid saponins bring challenges to comprehensive characterisation. In this study, triterpenoid saponins of three Glycyrrhiza species were systematically analysed using rapid resolution liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (RRLC-Q-TOF-MS) coupled with mass defect filtering (MDF). Firstly, comprehensive date acquisition was achieved using RRLC-Q-TOF-MS. Secondly, a polygonal MDF method was established by summarizing known and speculated substituents and modifications based on the core structure to rapidly screen potential triterpenoid saponins. Thirdly, based on the fragmentation patterns of reference compounds, an identification strategy for characterisation of triterpenoid saponins was proposed. The strategy divided triterpenoid saponins into three distinct classes. By this strategy, 98 triterpenoid saponins including 10 potential new ones were tentatively characterised. Finally, triterpenoid saponins of three Glycyrrhiza species were further analysed using principle component analysis (PCA) and orthogonality partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). Among these, 18 compounds with variable importance in projections (VIP) > 1.0 and P values < 0.05 were selected to distinguish three Glycyrrhiza species. Overall, our study provided a reference for quality control and rational use of the three species.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of major components of Qiye Shen'an tablet by UPLC Q-TOF/MS and UPLC-TQS-MS/MS.

The Qiye Shen'an tablet is formulated using total saponins extracted from Notoginseng stems and leaves. At present, the study on its chemical composition remains scarce and the quality control indicators are limited, which seriously hindering the effective quality control and clinical research. Hence, this study aims to comprehensively identify and characterize the Qiye Shen'an tablet while controlling its main component contents. To achieve a comprehensive understanding of this tablet, an ultra-high performance liquid coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) method was employed for its separation and characterization. Through the analysis of 99 batches of Qiye Shen'an tablet produced by 9 enterprises, the characteristic quantitative components were further obtained. A total of 113 compounds were characterized and identified, among which 17 representative compounds were selected, and the ultra-high performance liquid-triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-TQS-MS/MS) method was established for further quantitative determination. It has been successfully applied to the content determination of 99 batches of Qiye Shen'an tablet, and a new quality control method is being formed. This study provides a new method for chemical spectrum analysis and determination of labeled compounds of Qiye Shen'an tablet, and lays a solid foundation for further study of potential active ingredients and comprehensive quality evaluation.

Improving the antinutritional profiles of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) moderately impacts carotenoid bioaccessibility but not mineral solubility.

Common beans are a common staple food with valuable nutritional qualities, but their high contents in antinutritional factors (ANFs) can decrease the bioavailability of (i) fat-soluble micronutrients including carotenoids and (ii) minerals. Our objective was to select ANF-poor bean lines that would not interfere with carotenoid and mineral bioavailability. To achieve this objective, seeds of commercial and experimental Phaseolus vulgaris L. bean lines were produced for 2 years and the bean's content in ANFs (saponins, phytates, tannins, total polyphenols) was assessed. We then measured carotenoid bioaccessibility and mineral solubility (i.e. the fraction of carotenoid and mineral that transfer into the aqueous phase of the digesta and is therefore absorbable) from prepared beans using in vitro digestion. All beans contained at least 200 mg/100 g of saponins and 2.44 mg/100 g tannins. The low phytic acid (lpa) lines, lpa1 and lpa12 exhibited lower phytate levels (≈ - 80%, p = 0.007 and p = 0.02) than their control BAT-93. However, this decrease had no significant impact on mineral solubility. HP5/1 (lpa + phaseolin and lectin PHA-E free) bean line, induced an improvement in carotenoid bioaccessibility (i.e., + 38%, p = 0.02, and + 32%, p = 0.005, for phytofluene bioaccessibility in 2021 and 2022, respectively). We conclude that decrease in the phytate bean content should thus likely be associated to decreases in other ANFs such as tannins or polyphenols to lead to significant improvement of micronutrient bioaccessibility.

Intercropping with maize and sorghum-induced saikosaponin accumulation in Bupleurum chinense DC. by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics.

Bupleuri Radix is an important medicinal plant, which has been used in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. Cultivated Bupleurum chinense DC. (B. chinense) is the main commodity of Bupleuri Radix. The benefits of intercropping with various crops for B. chinense have been recognized; however, the influence of intercropping on the chemical composition of B. chinense is still unclear yet. In this study, intercropping with sorghum and maize exhibited little effect on the root length, root diameter, and single root mass of B. chinense. Only the intercropping with sorghum increased the root length of B. chinense slightly compared to the monocropping. In addition, 200 compounds were identified by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS, and metabolomic combined with the Venn diagram and heatmap analysis showed apparent separation between the intercropped and monocropped B. chinense samples. Intercropping with sorghum and maize could both increase the saikosaponins, fatty acyls, and organic acids in B. chinense while decreasing the phospholipids. The influence of intercropping on the saikosaponin biosynthesis was probably related with the light intensity and hormone levels in B. chinense. Moreover, we found intercropping increased the anti-inflammatory activity of B. chinense. This study provides a scientific reference for the beneficial effect of intercropping mode of B. chinense.

Evaluation of drug interactions of Saposhnikoviae Radix and its major components with astragaloside IV and paeoniflorin using in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Saposhnikoviae Radix (SR) may enhance the pharmacodynamics of Huangqi Chifeng Tang (HQCFT) in the treatment of cerebral infarction according to our previous research, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. Herein, an in vivo pharmacokinetic assay in rats and in vitro MDCK-MDR1 cell assays were used to investigate the possible mechanism of SR, its main components, and its interactions with Astragali Radix (AR) and Paeoniae Radix (PR). An ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS/MS)-based analytical method for quantifying astragaloside IV (ASIV) and paeoniflorin (PAE) in microdialysis and transport samples was developed. The pharmacokinetic parameters of SR were determined using noncompartmental analyses CCK-8 assays were used to detect the cytotoxicity of ASIV, PAE, cimifugin (CIM), prim-o-glucosylcimifugin (POG) and their combinations. Moreover, drug transport was studied using MDCK-MDR1 cells. Western blotting was performed to measure the protein expression levels of P-GP and MRP1. Claudin-5, ZO-1, and F-actin expression was determined via immunohistochemical staining of MDCK-MDR1 cells. harmacokinetic studies revealed that, compared with those of Huangqi Chifeng Tang-Saposhnikoviae Radix (HQCFT-SR), the Tmax of ASIV increased by 11.11 %, and the MRT0-t and Tmax of PAE increased by 11.19 % and 20 %, respectively, in the HQCFT group. Transport studies revealed that when ASIV was coincubated with 28 µM CIM or POG, the apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) increased by 71.52 % and 50.33 %, respectively. Coincubation of PAE with 120 µM CIM or POG increased the Papp by 87.62 % and 60.95 %, respectively. Moreover, CIM and POG significantly downregulated P-gp and MRP1 (P < 0.05), inhibited the expression of Claudin-5, ZO-1, and F-actin (P < 0.05), and affected intercellular tight junctions (TJs). In conclusion, our study successfully established a selective, sensitive and reproducible UPLC‒MS/MS analytical method to detect drug‒drug interactions between SR, AR and PR in vivo and in vitro, which is beneficial for enhancing the therapeutic efficacies of AR and PR. Moreover, this study provides a theoretical basis for further research on the use of SR as a drug carrier.

Cold Plasma Treatment of Little Millet Flour: Impact on Bioactives, Antinutritional Factors and Functional Properties.

This study delves into the transformative effects of atmospheric cold plasma (CP) treatment on little millet flour (LMF), specifically exploring alterations in bioactive compounds, antinutritional factors, and functional properties. Foaming and emulsification properties experienced noteworthy enhancements with plasma treatment, manifesting in significant increases in foaming capacity (up to 51.47 ± 0.49%), foaming stability, emulsification ability, and emulsion stability (up to 47.02 ± 0.35%). The treatment also positively influenced water absorption index and swelling power. Antinutritional factors, including tannins and saponins, exhibited substantial reductions following plasma treatment. Saponin content, for instance, decreased by an impressive 58% after exposure to 20 kV for 20 min. Conversely, bioactive compounds such as phenolic content and antioxidant activity saw significant increases. Total phenolic content (TPC) rose from 527.54 ± 8.94 to 575.82 ± 3.58 mg GAE/100 g, accompanied by a remarkable 59% boost in antioxidant activity. Interestingly, plasma treatment did not exhibit a discernible effect on pasting properties. These findings collectively underscore the potential of atmospheric CP treatment as a novel and effective method for enhancing the functional and nutritional attributes of LMF, thereby opening new avenues for its application in food science and technology.

Study on the components changes of polysaccharides and saponins during nine steaming and drying of Polygonatum sibiricum.

BACKGROUND: In this study, the content and structure of Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides and saponins during different processing stages were determined. RESULTS: After processing of Polygonatum, the content of polysaccharide and glucose decreased, and the content of galactose, glucuronic acid and sugar substitution gradually increased. The content of total saponins increased significantly. Only 18 compounds were found in raw Polygonatum and 17 new compounds were presented in processed Polygonatum. During the processing of Polygonatum, the polysaccharide was partially degraded into oligosaccharides, the molecular weight gradually decreased, and the neutral sugar was converted into uronic acid, resulting in a decrease in polysaccharide content. The saponins were partially degraded into sapogenins or modified. CONCLUSION: This study clarifies the changes in the content and structure of polysaccharides and saponins in processed Polygonatum, which will pave the way for elucidating the processing mechanism. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

NADES extraction, UHPLC-ELSD-based quantification, and network pharmacology-guided target identification of fourteen specialised metabolites from Trillium govanianum Wall. ex D.Don.

INTRODUCTION: Trillium govanianum Wall. ex D.Don is a folk medicinal herb rich in structurally diverse steroidal saponins. The annual demand for this herb in India is about 200-500 metric tons, highlighting the need for a thorough quality assessment. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to develop an easy and reliable ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detector (UHPLC-ELSD)-based quality assessment method with 14 specialised metabolites of T. govanianum and identify the potential targets of this herb using network pharmacology. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A UHPLC-ELSD method was developed and validated with 14 markers of T. govanianum. The developed method and natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES)-assisted extraction were utilised for the recovery enhancement study of targeted specialised metabolites from rhizome samples (collected from five geographically distinct areas). In addition, the network pharmacology approach was performed for these 14 markers to predict the plausible biological targets of T. govanianum. RESULT: The developed method showed good linearity (r2: 0.940-0.998), limit of detection (LOD) (2.4-9.0 µg), limit of quantification (LOQ) (7.92-29.7 µg), precision (intra-day relative standard deviations [RSDs] 0.77%-1.96% and inter-day RSDs 2.19-4.97%), and accuracy (83.24%-118.90%). NADES sample TG-1* showed the highest recovery (yield: 167.66 ± 4.39 mg/g of dry weight) of total saponin content (TSC) as compared to its hydroethanolic extract (yield: 103.95 ± 5.36 mg/g of dry weight). Sample TG-1* was the most favourable (yield: 167.66 ± 4.39 mg/g) in terms of TSC as compared to other analysed samples (32.68 ± 1.04-88.22 ± 6.79 mg/g). Govanoside D (yield: 3.43-28.06 mg/g), 22ß-hydroxyprotodioscin (yield: 3.22-114.79 mg/g), and dioscin (yield: 1.07-20.82 mg/g) were quantified as the major metabolites. Furthermore, network pharmacology analysis of targeted 14 markers indicated that these molecules could be possible therapeutic agents for managing neuralgia, diabetes mellitus, and hyperalgesia. CONCLUSION: The current study represents the first report for the simultaneous quantification and a network pharmacology-based analysis of 14 chemical marker compounds isolated from T. govanianum.

Phytochemical Screening and in vitro Anticancer Activity of Some Medicinal Plants Grown in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia / Cribado Fitoquímico y Actividad Anticancerígena in vitro de Algunas Plantas Medicinales Cultivadas en el Reino de Arabia Saudita

SUMMARY: This study evaluated the phytochemical screening, antioxidant capacity, and in vitro anticancer activities of four plants namely, Gypsophila capillaris, Anabasis lachnantha, Haloxylon salicornicum, and Horwoodia dicksoniae which belong to four different families: Caryophyllaceae, Amaranthaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Brassicaceae, respectively. The total phenolics, anthocyanins, saponins, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and DPPH assays were determined by spectrophotometer. In vitro anticancer activity was assessed using two human cancer cell lines; hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2) and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) to estimate the inhibition concentration 50 % (IC50). The results showed that H. dicksoniae has the highest concentrations of phenolics and saponins, while H. salicornicum has the highest DPPH. The highest concentration of TAC was found in G. capillaries. Among the tested extracts, G. capillaries and H. salicornicum have the potential activity against MCF-7 and HepG-2 cell lines in vitro. The content of polyphenols in G. capillaries was profiled by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The highest concentration among the phenolic compounds was chlorogenic (60.8 µg/ml) while the highest concentration among the flavonoid compounds was hesperidin (1444.92 µg/ml). In summary, G. capillaries and H. salicornicum extracts have potent anticancer activity against HepG-2 and MCF-7 cell lines.

Este estudio evaluó la detección fitoquímica, la capacidad antioxidante y las actividades anticancerígenas in vitro de cuatro plantas, Gypsophila capillaris, Anabasis lachnantha, Haloxylon salicornicum y Horwoodia dicksoniae, que pertenecen a cuatro familias diferentes: Caryophyllaceae, Amaranthaceae, Chenopodiaceae y Brassicaceae, respectivamente. Los ensayos de fenólicos totales, antocianinas, saponinas, capacidad antioxidante total (TAC) y DPPH se determinaron mediante espectrofotómetro. La actividad anticancerígena in vitro se evaluó utilizando dos líneas celulares de cáncer humano; carcinoma hepatocelular (HepG-2) y adenocarcinoma de mama (MCF- 7) para estimar la concentración de inhibición del 50 % (IC50). Los resultados indicaron que H. dicksoniae tiene las concentraciones más altas de fenólicos y saponinas, mientras que H. salicornicum tiene el DPPH más alto. La mayor concentración de TAC se encontró en G. capillaries. Entre los extractos probados, G. capillaries y H. salicornicum tienen actividad potencial contra líneas celulares MCF-7 y HepG-2 in vitro. El contenido de polifenoles en G. capillaries se perfiló mediante cromatografía líquida de alta resolución (HPLC). La concentración más alta entre los compuestos fenólicos fue clorogénica (60,8 µg/ml), mientras que la concentración más alta entre los compuestos flavonoides fue la hesperidina (1444,92 µg/ml). En resumen, los extractos de Gypsophila capillaris y H. salicornicum tienen una potente actividad anticancerígena contra las líneas celulares HepG-2 y MCF-7.

Pharmacognostical studies of Eclipta prostrata (Linn. ) grown in Sri Lanka / Estudios farmacognósticos de Eclipta prostrate (Linn. ) cultivada en Sri Lanka

Eclipta prostrata Linn. is an annual herbaceous plant used in traditional medicine, commonly known as "Trailing Eclipta" or False Daisy in English, ' Keekirindiya ' in Sinhala and ' Kayyantakara' in Tamil. The aim of this study was to conduct a detailed pharmacognostical evaluation of E. prostrata found in Sri Lanka. Anatomical, physicochemical, phytochemical studies, and quantification of phyto - constituents were performed as per WHO guidelines. Whole plant was sequ entially extracted into solvents with different polarities. Phytochemical screening and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) fingerprinting were carried out. Anatomical study and powder microscopy revealed useful diagnostic features. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, ash values (total, acid insoluble, water soluble) and extractable matter in water and ethanol were evaluated. Phytochemical screening and TLC fingerprinting revealed the presence of different types of phyto - constituents. Alkaloid, tannin, saponin, total flavonoid and total polyphenol contents were quantified. In conclusion, pharmacognostical study aids in establishing the standardization parameters of E. prostrata found in Sri Lanka.

Eclipta prostrata Linn. es una planta herbácea anual utilizada en la medicina tradicional, comúnmente conocida como "Trailing Eclipta" o False Daisy en inglés, 'Keekirindiya' en sinhala y 'Kayyan takara' en tamil. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una evaluación farmacognóstica detallada de E. prostrata encontrada en Sri Lanka. Se llevaron a cabo estudios anatómicos, fisicoquímicos, fitoquímicos y cuantificación de fitoconstituyentes según l as directrices de la OMS. Se extrajo secuencialmente la planta entera en solventes con diferentes polaridades. Se realizaron pruebas de tamizaje fitoquímico y huellas dactilares de cromatografía en capa delgada (TLC). El estudio anatómico y la microscopía en polvo revelaron características diagnósticas útiles. Se evaluaron parámetros fisicoquímicos como el contenido de humedad, los valores de ceniza (total, insoluble en ácido, soluble en agua) y la materia extraíble en agua y etanol. Las pruebas de tamizaje fitoquímico y las huellas dactilares de TLC revelaron la presencia de diferentes tipos de fitoconstituyentes. Se cuantificaron los contenidos de alcaloides, taninos, saponinas, flavonoides totales y polifenoles totales. En conclusión, el estudio farmacogn óstico ayuda a establecer los parámetros de estandarización de E. prostrata encontrada en Sri Lanka.